Hearing aid implant recharging system

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure relates to charging and recharging systems for compact hearing aids, components thereof, and support devices therefor. The charging and recharging systems generally include a light emitting device, such as an aural insert having a light emitting diode, and a photovoltaic cell disposed on an implanted hearing aid. In operation, the light emitting device is positioned in or near the entrance of the ear canal and transmits light energy across the ear canal towards the implanted hearing aid. The photovoltaic cell receives the light energy and converts the light energy into stored electricity to power the hearing aid.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Nonprovisional patentapplication Ser. No. 16/893,787, filed Jun. 5, 2020, which claimsbenefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/858,216,filed on Jun. 6, 2019, which is herein incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND Field

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to assistivehearing devices and methods for recharging thereof. More particularly,embodiments of the present disclosure are related to recharging ofhearing aid implants via light emitting diode-photovoltaic systems.

Description of the Related Art

Hearing aids are well known and typically include a microphone, anamplifier, and a speaker. Typically, the microphone receives a soundwave and converts the wave into an electrical signal, the amplifieramplifies the electrical signal, and the speaker converts the amplifiedsignal into amplified sound waves that impart vibrations to the tympanicmembrane or ear drum in the ear. Traditionally, hearing aids are mountedoutside the ear canal, particularly around the outer ear. The externallymounted hearing aid has the advantage of accessibility to adjust thevolume of sound and change batteries. However, many users find suchexternally mounted hearing aids to be relatively bulky and objectionablefor cosmetic and comfort reasons.

An alternative to externally mounted hearing aids are internally mountedhearing aids disposed in an ear canal of a user. Conventional internallymounted hearing aids offer better cosmetic appearance, but havedisadvantages as well. Such hearings aids are usually employed forextended periods of time and utilize microelectronic chipsets thatconsume large amounts of power, therefore requiring repeated replacementof batteries every few days or frequent recharging with bulky inductivecharging devices. The frequent battery replacement and/or rechargingrequirements make internally mounted hearing aids less desirable foractive people and children, resulting in a significant impact on qualitylife for the hearing impaired members of the population.

Therefore, what is needed in the art are improved methods and apparatusfor recharging internally mounted hearing aids.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure generally relates to methods and apparatus forrecharging of internally mounted hearing aids, and more particularly,recharging of internally mounted hearing aid implants via light emittingdiode-photovoltaic systems.

In one embodiment, a charging system for a hearing aid implant disposedthrough a tympanic membrane of an ear includes one or more photovoltaic(PV) cells located on a proximal end of the hearing aid implant and oneor more light sources configured to be inserted in or near an entranceof an ear canal of the ear. During operation, the one or more lightsources emit a light energy receivable by the one or more PV cells tocharge the hearing aid implant.

In one embodiment, a charging system for a hearing aid implant disposedthrough a tympanic membrane of an ear includes one or more photovoltaic(PV) cells located on a proximal end of the hearing aid implant and acharging device configured to be inserted in or near an entrance of anear canal of the ear. The charging device further includes one or morelight sources emitting a light energy receivable by the one or more PVcells of the hearing aid implant and having a wavelength correspondingto a wavelength range of high reflectivity by one or more surfaces ofthe ear canal. During operation, the one or more PV cells convert thelight energy into stored electricity to power the hearing aid implant

In one embodiment, a charging system for a hearing aid implant disposedthrough a tympanic membrane of an ear includes one or more photovoltaic(PV) cells located on a proximal end of the hearing aid implant and acharging device configured to be inserted in or near an entrance of anear canal of the ear. The charging device further includes one or morehigh spectral purity, high efficiency resonant cavity light emittingdiodes (LEDs) for emitting a light energy having a wavelengthcorresponding to a wavelength range of high reflectivity by one or moresurfaces of the ear canal. A support device is coupled to the one ormore LEDs and is configured to at least partially rest external to theear canal and secure the charging device to the ear. During operation,the one or more PV cells are configured to absorb the light energyemitted directly from the one or more LEDs as well as light energyreflected by the one or more surfaces of the ear canal and convert thelight energy into stored electricity to power the implanted hearing aid.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the manner in which the above recited features of the presentdisclosure can be understood in detail, a more particular description ofthe disclosure, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference toembodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Itis to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate onlyexemplary embodiments and are therefore not to be considered limiting ofits scope, and may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of an ear having ahearing aid implanted through a tympanic membrane and a wirelesscharging device inserted near an entrance of the ear canal.

FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate schematic cross-sectional views of a light sourceassembly of the wireless charging device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate schematic cross-sectional views of a photovoltaicassembly of the hearing aid of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate perspective views of the hearing aid of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate an aural insert for the wireless charging deviceof FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 illustrates an external support device for the wireless chargingdevice of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate an external support device for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate an external support device for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 illustrates an external support device for the wireless chargingdevice of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate external support devices for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 illustrates an external support device for the wireless chargingdevice of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate an external support device for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate an accessory for an external support device ofthe wireless charging device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 14A-14B illustrate an external support device for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate an external support device for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate an external support device for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 17A-17B illustrate an external support device for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 18A-18B illustrate an external support device for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 19A-19B illustrate an external support device for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 20A-20B illustrate an external support device for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 21A-21B illustrate an external support device for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 22A-22B illustrate an external support device for the wirelesscharging device of FIG. 1.

To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have beenused, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common tothe figures. It is contemplated that elements and features of oneembodiment may be beneficially incorporated in other embodiments withoutfurther recitation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates to charging and recharging systems forcompact hearing aids, components thereof, and support devices therefor.The charging and recharging systems generally include a light emittingdevice, such as an aural insert having a light emitting diode, and aphotovoltaic cell disposed on an implanted hearing aid. In operation,the light emitting device is positioned in or near the entrance of theear canal and transmits light energy across the ear canal towards theimplanted hearing aid. The photovoltaic cell receives the light energyand converts the light energy into stored electricity to power theimplanted hearing aid. In certain embodiments, the light emitting devicefurther transmits one or more wireless command signals to the implantedhearing aid, which may execute commands (e.g., functions) based on thewireless command signals received from the light emitting device.

The embodiments described herein provide exemplary configurations ofimplanted hearing aids contemplated by the present disclosure. However,any other suitable configurations for hearing aids that modulate thevelocity or the position of the tympanic membrane, by direct or indirectmodulation, are also contemplated. The embodiments that follow discussinserting the disclosed compact hearing aids through the tympanicmembrane as an example; however, the compact hearing aids are alsodisposable in other locations within the ear.

Anatomy of the Ear

FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an ear 100 having ahearing aid implanted through the tympanic membrane and a wirelesscharging device inserted into the ear canal thereof. The ear 100includes an outer ear 110, an ear canal 112 coupled to the outer ear110, and a tympanic membrane 114 disposed near a proximal end of the earcanal 112 from the outer ear 110. The structure of the outer ear 110provides a “funnel” to direct and amplify the amplitude of sound wavesinto the ear canal 112. An ossicular chain 115, located in a middle earand disposed on a medial side of the tympanic membrane 114 from theouter ear 110, couples and amplifies vibrations from the tympanicmembrane 114 to an inner ear having a spiral structure known as thecochlea 120. The cochlea 120 converts the vibrations into impulses tothe brain.

Hearing aids, such as hearing aid 122, of the present disclosure can beinserted through the outer ear 110 into the ear canal 112 and at leastpartially through the tympanic membrane 114. The hearing aid 122generally includes a sensor, such as a microphone, and at least oneeardrum stimulating member described in more detail below. The hearingaid 122 generally receives sound waves conducted from the outer ear 110through the ear canal 112, converts the sound waves into electrical orelectromagnetic signals, and converts the electrical signals intomechanical motion, which is typically called a feed-forward system. Themechanical motion is used to impact the tympanic membrane 114, and/orportions of the middle and inner ear, to vibrate the ossicular chain115, specifically the malleus 118, the incus 117, and the stapes 116.These three bones in the ossicular chain 115 act as a set of levers thatamplify the amplitude of the vibrations received by the tympanicmembrane 114. The stapes 116 is coupled to the entrance of a spiralstructure known as the cochlea 120 that contains an inner ear fluid. Themechanical vibrations of stapes 116 cause the fluid to develop fluidimpulses that cause small hair-like cells (not shown) in the cochlea 120to vibrate. The vibrations are transformed into electrical impulses,which are transmitted to neuro-pathways in the hearing center of thebrain resulting in the perception of sound.

Because the hearing aid 122 may be fixedly inserted through the tympanicmembrane 114, one or more energy sources (e.g., batteries) thereof maybe recharged with a wireless charging device 142. The charging device142, like the hearing aid 122, may also be inserted through the outerear 110 and into the ear canal 112 for wireless transfer of energy tothe hearing aid 122 implanted therein to power the hearing aid 122.Additionally, the charging device 142 may wirelessly communicate withthe hearing aid 122 and transfer one or more wireless command signalsthereto. In certain embodiments, the hearing aid 122 audibly signals tothe user a power level (e.g., charge state) thereof and/or the executionof the one or more commands communicated by the wireless charging device142. For example, the hearing aid 122 may produce an audible tone forthe user signaling a low-charge level, a fully-charged level, a volumelevel and/or adjustment, and activation and/or deactivation (e.g., poweron or power off) of the hearing aid 122.

As described in more detail below, the charging device 142 generallyincludes one or more light emitting components (e.g., light sources) foroptically coupling with the hearing aid 122 to transfer energy theretoin the form of light. Accordingly, the hearing aid 122 generallyincludes one or more photovoltaic (PV) assemblies (e.g., light-receivingsurfaces or cells) for receiving light emitted from the charging device142 and converting the light into electricity using semiconductingmaterials exhibiting the photovoltaic effect.

Light Emitting Systems and Devices

FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate schematic cross-sectional views of a light sourceassembly 200 and a light source 210 of the wireless charging device 142,respectively. The light source assembly 200 is generally disposed on adistal end of the charging device 142, which may include an earpiece oraural insert that is configured to be easily inserted into and removedfrom the ear canal. The ability to insert and remove the charging device142 from the ear canal enables charging/recharging of the chargingdevice 142 itself and/or cleaning thereof. During operation, the lightsource assembly 200 may be disposed at a distance of about 30 cm or lessfrom a light receiver, such as a photovoltaic cell, of the hearing aid122. For example, upon insertion of the charging device 142 into or nearthe ear canal, the light source assembly 200 may be disposed at adistance of between about 2 mm and about 30 mm from the hearing aid 122,such as a distance of between about 10 mm and about 20 mm from thehearing aid 122. In certain embodiments, the light source assembly 200is disposed at a distance from the hearing aid 122 substantially equalto a length of the user's ear canal. As used herein, the term “distal”refers to a portion of the light emitting assemblies, hearing aids, orsupport devices closest to the cochlea when inserted into the ear canal,or a direction toward the cochlea. The term “proximal” refers to aportion of the light emitting assemblies or hearing aids furthest to thecochlea when inserted into the ear canal, or a direction away from thecochlea.

As depicted in FIG. 2A, the light source assembly 200 includes at leastone light source 210 disposed on a light-reflective substrate holder 220and encapsulated within an encapsulant 230. In certain embodiments, aplurality of light sources 210 are arranged in one or more arrays on thelight-reflective substrate holder 220 and are encapsulated within theencapsulant 230. During operation, the substrate holder 220 reflects anyradially- and/or proximally-emitted light from the light sources 210 ina distal direction through the encapsulant 230, thus enabling maximumlight delivery to the hearing aid 122 within the ear canal. Accordingly,the substrate holder 220 may be formed of thin reflective films ofaluminum, silver, chromium, and other suitable metals having a cup-likemorphology around each light source 210. In certain embodiments, thesubstrate holder 220 is formed of multiple layers of materials withdiffering optical properties, such as titanium dioxide and silicondioxide, to form a Bragg mirror structure. The encapsulant 230 is formedof any suitable optically-clear materials including, but not limited to,epoxy and polyurethane resins, for protecting the light source 210 whilealso enabling transmission of light therefrom. The light source assembly200 further includes two terminals 240 and 250 disposed through theencapsulant 230 and electrically coupled with the at least one lightsource 210. The terminals 240 and 250 are positive and negativecurrent-driving terminals, respectively, that enable application ofcurrent to the light sources 210 to turn the light sources 210 on.

In certain embodiments, the light source assembly 200 also includes oneor more secondary optics, such as a lens 260, to manipulate lightemission distribution of the light sources 210. Generally, the lens 260focuses or collimates light from the one or more light sources 210 inthe distal direction to improve light delivery to the hearing aid 122.In certain embodiments, the lens 260 creates a light field having adiameter of approximately 1 cm or greater to illuminate the entire earcanal, thus ensuring that the hearing aid 122 is within a propagationpath of the light source assembly 200. In certain embodiments, the lens260 is configured to focus the emitted light on a focal plane disposedat a distance from the light source assembly 200 between about 1 mm andabout 30 mm, such as between about 5 mm and about 25 mm, such as betweenabout 10 mm and about 20 mm, such as about 15 mm. To accommodate forpatient-to-patient variation of ear canal length, the light-propagatingproperties of the lens 260 may be adjustable.

Each light source 210 generally emits incoherent light having awavelength corresponding to the wavelength range of high lightreflectivity by the tympanic membrane and other surfaces within the earcanal, thus enabling multiple reflections and optimal capture ofindirect scattered light by the hearing aid 122. For example, the lightsources 210 may include light emitting diodes (LED) configured to emitlight having a wavelength in the range from about 400 nm to about 1100nm, such as a wavelength in the range from about 400 nm to about 870 nm,such as a wavelength of about 800 nm. In certain embodiments, the lightsources 210 include narrow wavelength light sources, such as aGa_(x)Al_((1-x))As-type LEDs, where x is between about 0.5 and about 1.In certain other embodiments, the light sources 210 include multiplewavelength light sources, such as a white light LEDs. It is furthercontemplated that a peak wavelength of the light sources 210 isgenerally between about 25 nm and 75 nm less than a peak absorptivity ofreceiving PV cells of the hearing aid 122. For example, the peakwavelength of the light sources 210 may be about 50 nm less than a peakabsorptivity of the PV cells of the hearing aid 122.

Although described above as being LEDs, the light sources 210 of thelight source assembly 200 may include any suitable types of lightsources for illuminating the PV assembly of the hearing aid 122 whilealso having a low power density to avoid uncomfortable heating of thepatient's ear canal. For example, the light sources may have a maximumpower dissipation of about 120 mW or less. Other suitable types of lightsources include incandescent light and coherent light sources, such aslaser-based light sources.

An exemplary structure of an LED-type light source 210 is depicted inFIG. 2B. The light source 210 depicted in FIG. 2B is a high spectralpurity, high efficiency resonant cavity LED (RCLED) and comprises anactive region 276 disposed between a plurality of n-type semiconductorlayers 270 and a plurality of p-type semiconductor layers 280, thusforming a double heterostructure. The heterostructure of the LED-typelight source 210 is stacked between an n+ (very heavily doped n-type)substrate 290 and a p+ GaAs layer 292 adjacent a metal contact 294 forcoupling with terminals 240, 250. In certain embodiments, the activeregion 276 includes one or more multiquantum well layers formed ofGaInP, AlGaAs, and/or Al_((1-x))Ga_(x)InP to trap injected chargecarriers therein and improve recombination of electrons and holes forphoton emission. To improve confinement of charge carriers within theactive region 276, the pluralities of layers 270, 280 may include one ormore cladding layers 272, 282 adjacent to the active region 276 andformed of GaAs. In certain embodiments, the pluralities of layers 270,280 may further include one or more Bragg reflector layers 274, 284 toincrease the light output power of the light source 210. Although notdepicted, it is further contemplated that the light source 210 may alsobe a surface mounted device LED (SMD LED) having an LED chip with aphosphor layer disposed in a flat top lens mounted on a printed circuitboard (PCB). Furthermore, although exemplary embodiments of the lightsource 210 are described with reference to FIG. 2B, those skilled in theart will understand that the light source 210 may be optimized bytailoring the composition and structure of the various components and/orlayers thereof.

Photovoltaic Systems and Devices

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate schematic cross-sectional views of a photovoltaic(PV) assembly 300 and a PV cell 310 of the hearing aid 122,respectively. The PV assembly 300 is generally disposed on a proximalportion of the hearing aid 122 within the ear canal for optical couplingwith the charging device 142 while avoiding interference with the sounddetection and amplification functions of the hearing aid 122. Asdepicted in FIG. 3A, the PV assembly generally includes at least one PVcell 310 that electrically couples with a power input of the hearing aid122 via positive and negative leads 340 and 350, respectively. Incertain embodiments, the PV assembly 300 includes a plurality of PVcells 310 arranged in one or more arrays. For example, a plurality of PVcells 310 may be partitioned and isolated such that they can beconnected in a serial configuration for higher voltage output, thuseliminating the need for DC-DC converters and eliminating related DC-DCup-conversion losses.

Generally, each PV cell 310 is a single or multi-junction (e.g., doublejunction, triple junction) semiconductor device configured to absorb theenergy of light produced by the charging device 142 and convert itdirectly into electricity to power the hearing aid 122. Utilization ofmultiple junctions may increase the energy absorption and/or conversionproperties of the PV cells 310. In certain embodiments, the outputvoltage of a single junction GaAs PV is between about 0.2V and about0.9V, and the output power is between about 10 mW and about 80 mW,depending on current density. The PV cells 310 may be optimized forabsorption of either broad or narrow wavelength light, such asachromatic or monochromatic light. In certain embodiments, the PV cells310 absorb light energy emitted by the charging device 142 that isreflected off the skin within the ear canal. For example, the lightsources 210 and the PV cells 310 may emit and absorb light having awavelength corresponding to optimal skin reflectivity, such as about 800nm. At 800 nm, surfaces within the ear canal, such as those of thetympanic membrane, have a high reflectance (0.8), low absorbance (0.1),and low transmittance (0.1), thus enabling optimum transmission of lightenergy within the ear canal.

An exemplary structure of a PV cell 310 is depicted in FIG. 3B accordingto embodiments of this disclosure. As shown, the PV cell 310 is aGaAs-based PV cell formed on a thinned N+ GaAs substrate 390, thushaving a reduced mass and profile. An n-type Bragg reflector layer 370,an n-type base layer 372, a thin p-type emitter layer 382, and a p-typewindow layer 384 are stacked above the substrate 390. Like the substrate390, the base layer 372 and the emitter layer 782 may be formed of GaAs,while the window layer 784 is formed of Al_(1-x)GaAs. In certainembodiments, the PV cell 310 further includes a p+ GaAs capping layer386 formed on the window layer 784. Generally, the bandgaps of theactive layers of the PV cell 310 are matched closely with the bandgapsof the active layers of the light sources 210 for optimal energytransfer therebetween. Although exemplary embodiments of the PV cell 310are described with reference to FIG. 3B, those skilled in the art willunderstand that the PV cell 310 may be optimized by tailoring thecomposition and structure of the various components or layers thereof.

As described above, the PV assembly 300 is generally disposed on aproximal portion of the hearing aid 122 within the ear canal and in anarrangement that avoids interference with the sound detection andamplification functions of the hearing aid 122. FIGS. 4A and 4Billustrate exemplary arrangements of PV assemblies 300 on the hearingaid 122 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In theembodiment depicted in FIG. 4A, the hearing aid 122 includes a proximalend 410 comprised of at least two oblique and converging surfaces 420 aand 420 b disposed at angles relative to a major axis A of the hearingaid 122, thus forming a wedge-like shape. In certain embodiments, theoblique surfaces 420 a and 420 b may be disposed at substantially equalangles relative to the major axis A. In certain other embodiments, theoblique surfaces 420 a and 420 b may be disposed at substantiallydifferent angles relative to the major axis A. Generally, a microphone430 or other sound detecting device is disposed on the first obliquesurface 420 a, while one or more PV assemblies 300 are disposed on thesecond oblique surface 420 b. Due to the sloped nature of the obliquesurfaces 420 a and 420 b, both the microphone 430 and the PV assemblies300 may be aligned to receive direct and indirect (e.g., reflected)acoustic and light energy from the ear canal.

In the alternative embodiment depicted in FIG. 4B, the proximal end 410of the hearing aid 122 is substantially cylindrical in shape and has aproximal face 440 substantially perpendicular to the major axis A of thehearing aid 122. Either the microphone 430 or the one or more PVassemblies 300 may be disposed on the proximal face 440 (microphone 430is shown in FIG. 4b ), while the other is disposed along thecircumferential surface 450 about the hearing aid 122. Thus, either themicrophone 430 or the PV assemblies 300 may receive direct acoustic orlight energy, while the other receives indirect acoustic or light energyreflected by the surfaces of the ear canal. As previously described, theone or more PV cells 310 of the PV assemblies 300 may absorb lightenergy emitted by charging device 142 that is reflected off the skinwithin the ear canal, such as light having a wavelength of about 800 nm.

In addition to transmitting light energy, the charging device 142 mayfurther be configured to wirelessly transmit one or more types ofcommunication signals to the hearing aid 122 for wireless communicationbetween the charging device 142 and the hearing aid 122. In certainembodiments, the hearing aid 122 may be configured to send a modulatedsignal to the hearing aid 122 for relaying desired commands thereto.Examples of commands that may be communicated between the chargingdevice 142 and the hearing aid 122 include commands to power on andpower off the hearing aid 122, or increase and lower the volume thereof.

Aural Inserts and External Support Devices

The present disclosure further contemplates the charging device 142comprising an aural insert or external support device for securing thelight source assembly 200 within or near the ear canal. Generally,during recharging of the hearing aid 122, it is desired that the lightsource assembly 200 (and thus, the one or more light sources 210) besecured in close proximity to and oriented towards the one or more PVassemblies 300 of the hearing aid 122.

FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate an exemplary aural insert 500 for positioning thelight source assembly 200 near the tympanic membrane 114 to provide adirect, clear line of site from the light source assembly 200 to thehearing aid 122. In certain embodiments, the light source assembly 200is coupled to a distal end 510 of the aural insert 500 which is insertedinto the user's ear canal 112, while a proximal end 520 is configured torest on the concha bowl, the intertragic notch, behind the tragus, orabout the entrance of the ear canal 112. In certain embodiments, theproximal end 520 further provide a port for connection to a power sourceto charge the charging device 142. The distal end 510 is shaped to fitwithin and traverse at least a portion of the user's ear canal 112, suchas between about ½ and about ⅔ of the length of the ear canal 112, toensure that light from the light source assembly 200 is not impeded byanatomical features or tortuosity of the ear canal 112. Furthermore, theaural insert 500 may have a channel formed through a length thereof(e.g., from a proximal to distal end of the aural insert 500) so as tonot impede hearing of the user while wearing the aural insert 500.

In certain embodiments, the aural insert 500 is custom-profiled via earimpression or 3D imaging to match the shape of a specific user's earcanal 112, thus enabling a custom and secure fit. In such embodiments,the aural insert 500 may be formed of relatively rigid materials, suchas acrylates and/or methacrylates. In certain other embodiments, theaural insert 500 has a universal fit and does not require customprofiling, and is thus formed of suitable malleable or flexiblematerials to conform to the tortuosity and length of the ear canal 112.Examples of suitable malleable materials include polymers such as rubberand silicone, polyurethane, foam, advanced plastics, and the like. Incertain examples, the aural insert 500 may be compressed by the userprior to insertion within the ear canal 112, after which the auralinsert 500 may decompress to fill the ear canal 112. In certainembodiments, the aural insert 500 is formed of an optically transparentor translucent material to enable transmission of light therethrough.

In addition to the aural insert 500, the present disclosure alsocontemplates the charging device 142 comprising other types of externalsupport devices for securing or mounting the light source assembly 200within or near the ear canal. The external support devices are generallydisposed near the ear canal, over the ear, around the ear, or in thevicinity of the user's head. Exemplary external support devices includeear buds, earmuffs, over-the-ear clips, glasses stem clips, headbands,and devices in or around the vicinity of the user's head that can beplaced near the ear canal, over the ear, around the ear, or in thevicinity of the user's head to enable interaction between the lightsource assembly 200 and the PV assemblies 300 of the hearing aid 122.

FIG. 6 illustrates one such external support device in the form ofearmuffs 600 for securing and stabilizing a light source assembly 200 inor near the ear canal of a user. As shown, the earmuffs 600 include aheadband 610 coupled to two ear cups 620 at opposing ends thereof,wherein at least one ear cup 620 has a light source assembly 200disposed therein. When worn, the ear cups 620 are placed over theexternal ear (e.g., over the concha bowl) of the user, thus positioningthe light source assembly 200 near the entrance of the user's ear canalfor recharging of the hearing aid 122. In certain embodiments, the lightsource assembly 200 may be disposed within a removable pod 640 for easyinsertion and removal from the earmuffs 600. The earmuffs 600 alsoinclude a USB port 630 for USB charging of the earmuffs 600.

FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate another exemplary external support device in theform of a headband 700. The headband 700 includes at least one pouch 710disposed on an internal or external side thereof for securing a lightsource assembly 200 near a user's ear canal when worn over the externalear of the user. Like with the earmuffs 600, the pouch 710 may beconfigured to receive the light source assembly 200 within a pod 640 foreasy insertion and removal therefrom. The headband 700 is generallyformed of any suitable materials, including fabrics or polymericmaterials such as silicone for user comfort. In certain embodiments, theheadband 700 is a standalone device. In certain other embodiments, theheadband 700 is further integrated with another piece of headwear, suchas a hat or skullcap 720, to be worn by the user during use of thecharging device 142.

FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate exemplary eyeglass stem clips 800 for securingthe light source assembly 200 in or near the ear canal of a user. Asdepicted, the eyeglass stem clips 800 may slide over or attach to (e.g.,clip to) the stems 820 of a pair of eyeglasses 810 during use thereof.When not being utilized, the eyeglass stem clips 800 may be removed fromthe eyeglasses 810 and coupled with a charging dock 830 having a USBport 840 for charging/recharging thereof. The eyeglass stem clips 800are generally formed of any suitable materials, including polymericmaterials such as silicone.

As an alternative to the eyeglass stem clips 800, FIG. 9 illustrates anexemplary eyeglass frame 900 having a light source assembly 200integrated therewith. As shown, one or both stems 920 of the eyeglassframe 900 has a protrusion 930 extending therefrom and configured toreceive a light source assembly 200. When worn, the protrusion 930extends over the ear and positions the light source assembly 200 in ornear the user's ear canal. Like the earmuffs 600, the eyeglass frame 900may have a USB port for USB charging/recharging of the eyeglass frame900 when not in use.

FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate exemplary concha devices 1000 and 1001 forpositioning the light source assembly 200 in or near the ear canal whilesubstantially resting within the concha bowl (e.g., cavum concha) of theuser's ear. Generally, the concha devices 1000 and 1001 comprise a base1010 coupled to a fitting 1020. Concha device 1001 further includes astem 1030 for easier handling by a user. The base 1010 houses the lightsource assembly 200 and any corresponding circuitry and rests externalto the ear canal during use, while the fitting 1020 is configured to fitinto the ear canal and secure (e.g., anchor) the device to the user'sear. Similar to the aural insert 500, the fitting 1020 is formed of anysuitable malleable or flexible material to conform to the tortuosity ofthe ear canal, including polymers such as rubber and silicone,polyurethane, foam, and/or advanced plastics. Accordingly, the fitting1020 may be compressed by the user prior to insertion within the earcanal, after which the fitting 1020 may decompress to fill the earcanal. In certain embodiments, the material of the fitting 1020 isoptically transparent or translucent to enable transmission of lighttherethrough. In certain embodiments, the fitting 1020 has a cavity orchannel formed therein to enable transmission of light from the lightsource assembly 200 to the hearing aid 122.

FIGS. 11, 12A-12B, and 13A-13B illustrate additional components that maybe utilized in combination with the concha devices 1000 and 1001described above. In FIG. 11, the concha device 1000 removably couples tostems 1110 of a headband 1100, which may further include a USB port 1120for USB charging/recharging of the headband 1100 and/or concha device1000. The headband 1100 provides additional support for securing theconcha device 1000 within the concha bowl during use thereof. Asdepicted in FIGS. 12A-12B, either of the concha devices 1000 or 1001 mayfurther be secured to a neckband 1200 by cables 1210. The neckband 1200is shaped to be supported upon a user's neck by tension, and provides ananchoring point for the concha devices 1000 and 1001 to prevent a userfrom dropping or losing the devices. FIGS. 13A-13B depict a portable andmodular charging unit 1300 for the concha device 1000. The charging unit1300 includes a charging base 1310 having USB port 1320 for USBcharging/recharging of one or more concha devices 1000. During use, theconcha devices 1000 may anchor to opposing sides of the charging base1310 by any suitable means, including mechanical or magnetic mechanisms.In certain embodiments, the charging unit 1300 also includes one or morecaps 1330 that attach to the charging base 1310 or the concha devices1000 themselves and cover the concha devices 1000 when anchored to thebase 1310. In certain embodiments, the one or more caps 1330 are furthercoupled to a keychain 1340 or other tethering device for attachment toother devices.

FIGS. 14A-14B, 15A-15B, and 16A-16B illustrate further examples ofexternal support devices for securing the light source assembly 200 inor near the ear canal of a user. In FIGS. 14A-14B, 15A-15B, and 16A-16B,the light source assembly 200 is coupled to distal ends of ear cuffs1400, 1500, and 1600, respectively, which encircle or wrap aroundvarious features of the external ear for support. For example, the earcuff 1400 encircles the upper helix 1410 of the ear and extends downpast the crus 1412 of the helix to the entrance of the ear canal 112,where it secures the light source assembly 200. The ear cuff 1500, onthe other hand, wraps around a portion of the lower helix 1416 andextends therefrom to the entrance of the ear canal 1214, thus extendingpast the lower antihelix 1418 and the concha bowl 1426. Alternatively,the ear cuff 1600 includes two arms 1610 which wrap around a portion ofthe upper helix 1410 and a portion of the lower helix 1416 and convergeover the concha bowl 1426 in a direction towards the ear canal 112 wherethe light source assembly 200 may be attached.

FIGS. 17A-17B illustrate yet another external support device in the formof a triangular earpiece 1700. The triangular earpiece 1700 includesthree vertices 1710, 1720, and 1730 that may be inserted within thefolds of the upper helix 1410, the lower helix 1416, and behind thetragus 1420 of the user's ear, thus enabling the triangular earpiece1700 to be completely supported therebetween by tension. As depicted,the light source assembly 200 is disposed at the vertex 1730 supportedbehind the tragus 1420, thereby positioning the light source assembly200 in or near the entrance of the ear canal 112.

In FIGS. 18A-18B, the light source assembly 200 is coupled to an earbracelet 1800 that may encircle a medial portion of the auricle 1422, orwhere the external ear attaches to the user's head. During use, theportion of the ear bracelet 1800 supporting the light source assembly200 may be pulled around the tragus 1420 such that the ear bracelet 1800is secured in place by tension. In FIGS. 19A-19B, the light sourceassembly 200 is coupled to a backside of a piercing 1900 through thetragus 1420, such as an earring stud. Accordingly, the piercing 1900provides a secure attachment point for the light source assembly 200near the ear canal 112 while occupying minimal space on the user's ear.

FIGS. 20A-20B illustrate another exemplary external support device inthe form of an ear cap 2000 that may function similar to a sleeve. Theear cap 2000 is generally configured to slide over a top portion of theauricle 1422 such that the light source assembly 200, which may besupported within a pouch thereof, is positioned near the ear canal 112.The ear cap 2000 is formed of any suitable malleable materials,including fabrics or silicone.

In FIGS. 21A-21B, the light source assembly is attached to an S-shapedear wrap 2100. A top portion of the s-shaped ear wrap 2100 hooks arounda top portion of the auricle 1422 and crosses over to extend past thetragus 1420, where the light source assembly 200 is attached andoriented towards the ear canal 112. Similar to the top portion thereof,a bottom portion of the s-shaped ear wrap 2100 hooks around the bottomportion of the auricle 1422, such as the lobule 1424, to provide furthersupport and stability to the s-shaped ear wrap 2100.

FIGS. 22A-22B illustrate another exemplary external support device inthe form of an ear hook assembly 2200. The ear hook assembly 2200generally includes an ear hook 2210 extending from a base 2220 thathouses or couples the light source assembly 200 thereto. In certainembodiments, the base 222 is an earcup (e.g., earmuff cup) that restsover a portion of the ear including the entrance of the ear canal 112,similar to the earmuffs 600 described above. In certain otherembodiments, the base 2220 is a concha device that rests within theconcha bowl 1426, similar to the concha device 1000. During operation,the ear hook 2210 slides over the top portion of the auricle 1422 andrests on a backside of the ear while the base 2220 is positioned overthe entrance of the ear canal 112 to stabilize the light source assembly200 in or near the ear canal 112.

CONCLUSION

In summary, embodiments of the present disclosure provide improvedcharging and recharging systems for hearing aids implanted within ornear the ear canal, such as those implanted through the tympanicmembrane. The disclosed systems utilize photovoltaic devices thatefficiently generate power for implants from artificially-produced lighttransmitted across the ear canal, thus eliminating the need for externalimplant power supplies or charging components. Moreover, the disclosedsystems provide compact and wireless light emitting devices that may beworn in or near the ear canal during recharging, thus enabling a userengage in other activities without significant impedance thereof.Accordingly, the disclosed systems enable the implantation of hearingsaids that are more compact, more comfortable, and less cosmeticallynoticeable.

While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the presentdisclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may bedevised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scopethereof is determined by the claims that follow.

What is claimed is:
 1. A rechargeable hearing aid system, comprising: ahearing aid configured to be implanted through a tympanic membrane of anear, the hearing aid comprising: a proximal end comprising asubstantially cylindrical morphology, the proximal end furthercomprising a proximal face substantially perpendicular to a major axisof the hearing aid; a photovoltaic (PV) cell disposed on the proximalend and configured to receive and convert light into stored electricityfor powering the hearing aid; and a rechargeable energy source.
 2. Therechargeable hearing aid system of claim 1, further comprising: amicrophone disposed on the proximal end and configured to receive andconvert sound into electrical signals, wherein the microphone isdisposed on the proximal face and the PV cell is disposed on acircumferential surface of the proximal end.
 3. The rechargeable hearingaid system of claim 1, further comprising: a microphone disposed on theproximal end and configured to receive and convert sound into electricalsignals, wherein the microphone is disposed on a circumferential surfaceof the proximal end and the PV cell is disposed on the proximal face. 4.The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 1, wherein the PV cellcomprises a GaAs-based PV cell.
 5. The rechargeable hearing aid systemof claim 1, further comprising: a charging device configured to beinserted in or near an entrance of an ear canal of the ear, the chargingdevice comprising a light source configured to emit light receivable bythe PV cell to recharge the rechargeable energy source.
 6. Therechargeable hearing aid system of claim 5, wherein the light sourcecomprises a light emitting diode (LED) configured to emit light having awavelength between about 400 nm and about 1100 nm.
 7. The rechargeablehearing aid system of claim 5, wherein the charging device is furtherconfigured to transmit command signals to the hearing aid, the commandsignals comprising one or more of a command to power on the hearing aid,a command to power off the hearing aid, and a command to adjust a volumeof the hearing aid.
 8. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 1,wherein the hearing aid is configured to produce an audible signal forindicating a power level of the hearing aid.
 9. The rechargeable hearingaid system of claim 8, wherein the hearing aid is configured to producean audible signal for indicating one or more of a low-charge level ofthe hearing aid, a fully-charged level of the hearing aid, a volumelevel and/or adjustment of the volume level, an activation of thehearing aid, and a deactivation of the hearing aid.
 10. A rechargeablehearing aid system, comprising: a hearing aid configured to be implantedthrough a tympanic membrane of an ear, the hearing aid comprising: aproximal end comprising a plurality of oblique and converging surfaces;a photovoltaic (PV) cell disposed on one of the plurality of oblique andconverging surfaces and configured to receive and convert light intostored electricity for powering the hearing aid; and a rechargeableenergy source.
 11. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 10,further comprising: a microphone disposed on the proximal end andconfigured to receive and convert sound into electrical signals, whereinthe microphone is disposed on another one of the plurality of obliqueand converging surfaces.
 12. The rechargeable hearing aid system ofclaim 11, wherein the one and the another one of the plurality ofoblique and converging surfaces are disposed at substantially equalangles relative to a major axis of the hearing aid.
 13. The rechargeablehearing aid system of claim 11, wherein the one and the another one ofthe plurality of oblique and converging surfaces are disposed atsubstantially different angles relative to a major axis of the hearingaid.
 14. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 10, wherein the PVcell comprises a GaAs-based PV cell.
 15. The rechargeable hearing aidsystem of claim 9, further comprising: a charging device configured tobe inserted in or near an entrance of an ear canal of the ear, thecharging device comprising a light source configured to emit lightreceivable by the PV cell to recharge the rechargeable energy source.16. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 15, wherein the lightsource comprises a light emitting diode (LED) configured to emit lighthaving a wavelength between about 400 nm and about 1100 nm.
 17. Therechargeable hearing aid system of claim 15, wherein the charging deviceis further configured to transmit command signals to the hearing aid,the command signals comprising one or more of a command to power on thehearing aid, a command to power off the hearing aid, and a command toadjust a volume of the hearing aid.
 18. The rechargeable hearing aidsystem of claim 10, wherein the hearing aid is configured to produce anaudible signal for indicating a power level of the hearing aid.
 19. Therechargeable hearing aid system of claim 18, wherein the hearing aid isconfigured to produce an audible signal for indicating one or more of alow-charge level of the hearing aid, a fully-charged level of thehearing aid, a volume level and/or adjustment of the volume level, anactivation of the hearing aid, and a deactivation of the hearing aid.20. A rechargeable hearing aid system, comprising: a hearing aidconfigured to be fixedly implanted through a tympanic membrane of anear, the hearing aid comprising: a proximal end comprising a pluralityof surfaces; a photovoltaic (PV) cell disposed on at least one of theplurality of surfaces of the proximal end and configured to receive andconvert light into stored electricity for powering the hearing aid; amicrophone disposed on at least one of the plurality of surfaces of theproximal end and configured to receive and convert sound into electricalsignals; and a rechargeable energy source.